Romanesque
/ˌroʊ.məˈnɛsk/noun
A style of medieval European architecture characterized by rounded arches, thick walls, and massive forms.
Did you know?Romanesque comes through French from Latin roots meaning “Roman-like,” and it originally described a style that was seen as a surviving echo of Rome’s ancient power.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
Romanicus
“Roman; of or belonging to Rome”
Old French
Old French
romanesque
“Roman-like; in the Roman style”
12th–18th Century
English
romanesque
“Roman-like; medieval style resembling ancient Roman forms”
19th Century
English
Romanesque
“A term applied by art historians to medieval architecture and art with Roman features”
Modern English
English
Romanesque
“A medieval architectural and artistic style marked by rounded arches and heavy masonry”